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Michael Lengsfield
Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more There are no formal requirements for this course, just an interest in screenwriting. You can use the hashtag #FLscreenwriting to talk about this course on social media.
Topics Covered
Read more
Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more There are no formal requirements for this course, just an interest in screenwriting. You can use the hashtag #FLscreenwriting to talk about this course on social media.
Topics Covered
Read more
Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more There are no formal requirements for this course, just an interest in screenwriting. You can use the hashtag #FLscreenwriting to talk about this course on social media.
Topics Covered
- Basic characteristics of screen story
- Development of a basic storyline
- Story structures including The Three Act Structure and alternate story structures
- Characters and developing character outlines
- The construction of scenes including the role of dialogue and character voice
- The workflow for writing a first draft of feature film screenplay
- The process for screenplay formatting
- Writing – and finishing – a first draft
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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Reviews summary
Introduction to screenwriting fundamentals
According to learners, this course provides an excellent introduction highly suitable for absolute beginners interested in learning the craft of screenwriting. Students found the content clear and well-structured covering essential fundamentals like the Three Act Structure, character development, and scene construction. Many appreciated the practical approach to outlining the workflow for writing a first draft and found the section on formatting helpful. While inspiring and easy to follow, some reviewers felt it was too basic if you already have some screenwriting experience and wished for more depth on advanced topics or feedback opportunities.
Covers essential screenwriting theory and practice.
"The course successfully introduced me to the fundamental elements of screen story and character."
"It gives a solid overview of all the key aspects you need to consider when starting out."
"Covers everything from developing a basic storyline to scene construction and formatting."
Provides a useful framework for writing a first draft.
"The section on the workflow for writing a first draft was incredibly practical and helped demystify the process."
"Gave me clear steps on how to approach writing and finishing a script."
"Liked the emphasis on just getting the first draft done using a structured method."
Core concepts explained clearly with a logical flow.
"The course content was very clear and easy to follow, breaking down concepts like structure and character effectively."
"I really appreciated how the modules were structured; it made learning the basics very manageable."
"The explanations of story structures, especially the Three Act, were particularly helpful and well presented."
Perfect starting point for newcomers to the field.
"This course is perfect if you are an absolute beginner who knows nothing about screenwriting and need a place to start."
"Highly recommended as a first step for anyone curious about writing for the screen."
"I had zero experience coming into this and now feel confident about the basics."
Opportunities for personalized feedback are missing.
"While informative, there's no mechanism for getting actual feedback on your writing which is crucial for development."
"Wished there was a way to submit work and get critiques from instructors or TAs."
"The course teaches you the concepts but doesn't provide guidance on improving your actual script pages."
Lacks depth for those with prior screenwriting knowledge.
"If you've already read a few books or taken workshops on screenwriting, much of this might be review and a bit too basic."
"I was hoping for something that went into more advanced techniques, but this stayed very introductory."
"For someone with some writing background, this might feel like it doesn't go deep enough on complex topics."
Activities
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An Introduction to Screenwriting.
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Career center
Learners who complete An Introduction to Screenwriting will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
For more career information including salaries, visit:
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Reading list
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This best-selling book provides a step-by-step guide to writing a successful screenplay. Snyder's unique approach to story structure has helped countless screenwriters to create compelling and engaging narratives.
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This classic book explores the underlying mythic structure of successful stories. Vogler's insights into character arcs, plot points, and themes can help screenwriters to create stories that resonate with audiences.
This comprehensive guide to screenwriting covers everything from formatting to pitching your screenplay. Riley provides insider tips and advice from leading Hollywood screenwriters.
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By renowned screenwriting teacher Robert McKee focuses on the art of writing dialogue. McKee provides invaluable insights into how to create believable and engaging characters through their words.
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This comprehensive book by Robert McKee covers all aspects of storytelling, from developing a compelling premise to writing a satisfying ending. It is an essential resource for screenwriters who want to master the craft of storytelling.
This practical guide provides a step-by-step approach to writing a screenplay. Biederman covers everything from brainstorming ideas to developing characters and writing dialogue.
Explores the challenges and techniques of adapting existing works for the screen. Seger provides insights into how to stay faithful to the original material while creating a compelling and cinematic story.
Provides practical techniques for brainstorming and developing creative concepts. Duarte's insights can help screenwriters to come up with original and compelling ideas for their stories.
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Part memoir, part writing guide, Stephen King offers practical advice on the craft of writing, drawing from his extensive experience as a successful author. While focused on prose, his insights into storytelling, discipline, and the writing life are highly relevant and inspiring for screenwriters.
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This inspiring book by Anne Lamott provides practical advice and encouragement for writers of all levels. Lamott's insights into the writing process and the importance of perseverance can help screenwriters to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
This classic guide to writing provides essential advice on grammar, punctuation, and style. While not specific to screenwriting, Strunk and White's principles of clear and concise writing can benefit any screenwriter.
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This collection of interviews with renowned writers provides insights into the creative process and the craft of writing. While not specific to screenwriting, these interviews can offer valuable inspiration and guidance to screenwriters.
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Is considered a foundational text in screenwriting and is often referred to as the 'bible' of the craft. It provides a clear, step-by-step guide to screenplay structure, character development, and scene writing. It's an excellent starting point for beginners and a valuable reference for writers at any level, offering a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of screenwriting.
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Save the Cat! popular and accessible guide that breaks down screenplay structure into ten key 'beats'. It offers a practical template for plotting and is particularly useful for understanding genre conventions. While some find its formulaic approach limiting, it's widely read and provides a clear framework for developing a story, making it great for those seeking a practical method.
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This in-depth book is based on McKee's renowned screenwriting семинар (seminar) and is considered a comprehensive exploration of story and its application to screenwriting. It delves into the underlying principles of dramatic writing, offering a rigorous approach to understanding structure, character, and theme. It's highly valuable for those looking to deepen their understanding of the craft beyond basic formulas.
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Applies Joseph Campbell's work on the hero's journey to screenwriting, providing a framework for understanding common narrative patterns and character archetypes. It's excellent for adding depth and universal resonance to stories. It serves as a valuable reference for exploring character arcs and plot points through a mythological lens.
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John Truby's book offers a detailed and comprehensive approach to story structure and character development, going beyond traditional three-act structures. It provides tools for analyzing and building complex narratives and is highly regarded by many professionals. is particularly useful for those who want to deepen their understanding of story mechanics.
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Explores the enduring shapes of stories across various media, drawing on examples from television, film, and theater. It argues for a five-act structure rooted in Shakespearean drama and provides a compelling analysis of narrative patterns. It offers a broader perspective on storytelling that can enrich a screenwriter's understanding of form.
This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of screenwriting, from story structure and character development to dialogue and visual storytelling. It is an essential resource for both aspiring and experienced screenwriters.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bcxven/an
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